Reviews

Disappointment

It started out well - the concept of two boxers being bodyguards to a "good loan shark" is an interesting premise.
Sadly, characters who are normally / introduced as extremely smart, experienced, lethal etc. end up dumb or useless/powerless whenever the plot needs them to be.

An expert assassin not only doesn't do his job well (guy survives) but also gets jumped and overpowered by 2 guys.
An feared hitman gets sh*tfaced drunk, leaves his ID, wives photo and info in his office after he just dealt a heavy blow to an evil organization who he KNOWS know him. So bad guys do what? You can guess.
The heroes decide to get drunk and relax because... they took out two important guys from a wide net of evil villains? Villains who know their full names, specialities, addresses...? And they don't all hide in a safe house, no, they all just go on to work, private homes, drive out.

I could go on, especially with just how much this drama demands you suspend all logic and critical thinking for you to enjoy it.

The bromance between Gun Woo & Woo Jin was definitely a highlight.
The comraderie between the 'knifers' I loved as well but since there isn't any of it past a certain episode, most of the crumbs of joy i had from watching this show just went up in flames.

The overall acting and music was good, but the plot is weak and it has no rewatch value imo. A shame, because I was hyped for the show and excited to watch it.

Read More

Hands down best BL drama I have ever seen, I started this with no expectations and I ended up falling in love with this show. If you want to watch good show or a good bl show then just watch this, it's beyond amazing.

Story - 10/10
The story line is well done and well written. It will invoke a lot of emotions out of you. The writers will make you angry and laugh and be sad. The romance is one of the best. It's different from a lot of other bl dramas because they tackle really hard topics and when I was watching I wanted them not too but it is written so well that it made the show even better.

Acting/Cast - 10/10
Can I rate this 12/10 because the actors were all amazing. Chemistry was so brilliant that I was like whoever cast these actors did God's work. It was so beautiful to watch actors so natural with each other.

Music- 10/10
Just perfect, the right songs and instrumentals were used to fit the mood of the scenes.

Rewatch Value - 10/10
I enjoyed this so much that I had already re-watched it as I waited for the finale episode to air and I can say it was even better the second time round. So,yes the rewatch is on a 1000

Overall - 10/10
Overall, I enjoyed this show a lot, it was fun to watch, I replayed a lot of scenes and I can see myself re-watching this over and over again because it was so good.

Do I recommend this, hells yes, it's worth it. You will not regret giving this a go.

Read More

I got the impression that the love story thread was added as an after thought. To be convincing this love affair needed a lot more story time than what it got. The writers needed to show how these two became love birds right off the bat. Instead the male lead is like a stone wall, and she is for some reason desperately in love with him. They didn't give the viewer a reason to believe that these two would fall in love at the end.

It was entertaining enough for me to keep watching it - can thank the actors for that who were able to make this mediocre story into something reasonably entertaining.

Read More

if you want to watch a female toxic character draging everyone down in slow motion...

this one started of so promising actually. I could relate to pretty much every character up to episode 9 or 10.
Yes, the class system in Korea is harsh, very rich can't marry very poor people, true mostly.
Yes, a kind of traumatic childhood can give you trouble in your relationships as an adult, I can relate to that too.
And the writers played it out nicely for a while, with the fl and ml doing that 'wanting but can't dance' - although the 'wanting' side was 95% the ml, and the 'can't' side 99% the fl.

I did wonder a little why the fl was quite overreacting for the ml to shortly hesitate when he was late for their first restaurant date. I understood her first angry reaction. But given that she liked him too at that point I did not understand why she would not, at least some days later, and when he apologised for about a thousand times, - why she then would not even consider it could have had many different reasons why he shortly hesitated. Did he forget to lock something important in the office maybe? Did he feel really unwell or hey, was he maybe scared too? She gives him no credit, won't let him explain and drags this offended diva behaviour to the max. I found her character difficult at that point and my understanding her slowly vanished from that point.

But it gets worse. Every single time the ml has enough of her escapades - which are fueled with her steady looking angry blankly and simply not answering any understandable questions, just leaving people standing there like idiots - it's her luring him in again, giving him some spark of hope with her controversial behaviour. And every single time he bites the bait like a fish, she - vanishes again, or suddenly doesn't talk to him without any explanation.

She meanwhile starts some kind of alibi realtionship with the young guardsman who obviously likes her, while she, doesn't really like him but feels reminded of her dead young brother and lives out some trauma coping - I'll give her she might not actively realise it, but it's what she does.

This misery gets even topped when the fl stunts a fake fling with another co-worker, to put everyone off of her. Well, that is rather short sighted as she could instead just have had the courage to break up with the guardsman (who has his own palette of troubles by the way), instead of so deeply hurting and humiliating him with this strange plan. Also to blame is the co-worker of course, a friend of the ml, who easily destroys his friendship with this stupid stunt.

And after that stunt where most of the bank's employees and employers do believe it took place, it gets toxic to the max. So our fl does this stunt to also put off our ml from her - fine. But the next thing she does when he is hurt, and angry, and doesn't want anything to do with her -she leads him on again, making a scene, with tears and telling him'everybody is badmouthing and hating me and asking me questions and YOU don't even care and don't ask me about it?' Excuse me, WHAT?

This is borderline narcissistic behaviour par excellence from her, she wants him away, even pulls this destructive stunt and when he stars hating her - understandably, she blames him for not caring to know why she did all that shit?

He falls for it again, follows her home (pretty much every night by the way, which, once again, has this creepy stalking vibe I disliked and criticised in other dramas before), we get an ultracheesy, her sitting in the rain crying, and him bringing the umbrella, both staring at each other quite silly in the pouring rain for an hour. Of course she doesn't only get a sniffle for being in the rain, she gets ill being on the brink of death (or so it seems) with a fever the very next day. Our ml drives to her house again, finds her ill, and totally overdoes it. So he is in Seoul, with a car in front of her house. She of course has no cold meds at home (why ever that is), and he runs like a madman through the city at night to find all pharmacies closed (surprise) until he finds one that is open. Sorry, but why didn't he go by car? And why did he not take ten seconds to use his phone and simply look up which pharmacy near that place has emergency opening that night? This is all pretty nonsensical. So well, he gets about 50 different meds for a sniffle and a little fever, cooks her the expected sick porridge and leaves. She is funnily enough, completely well the nex day and at work and doesn't even care to believably thank him for his caretaking. But, all of a sudden, she gives him high hopes again, asking him out for dinner at the weekend. He bites the bait - once again, already knowing she will leave the company for another branch soon.

So, it really happens, they meet for that weekend dinner, he is carefully happy, longingly staring at her, trying to say only the right things, ( he is never really angry even at that point which is very unbelievable) and she is still rather friendly cold towards him, leaving him in his car saying goodbye from outside.

And then, it's not even surprising, after all this verbally giving him new hope by saying from now on she will prioritise her luck and her feelings, she - completely vanishes the very next day, her place is empty (however she managed that over night so shortly) she changed her phone number, has resigned from the company and is gone without a trace.

So, wow, she is so very toxic, it's almost unbelievable. And I can't excuse all of this because she has some childhood trauma, as many people have and don't act out like that steadily.
I wouldn't even mind that much if she would just be cold towards everyone including our ml, because she is just not able to have any relationship. But she plays it out once and again, everytime he starts getting away from her for being hurt yet another time, she drags him in again, and even asking him to give her compliments, to tell her once again how much he likes her etc. it's quite unbearable to watch it.

But don't get me wrong, the ml is not any better. Although being at least 40 or older, he is using another woman too who really likes him, almost marrying her although he knows he simply has no feelings for her. I also understood that to some point but shortly after he was just a coward not breaking up with her completely as he obviously knows how painful it is for her that she can't do anything for him to like her.
As mentioned before I do ask myself with some male drama characters why they always have to have these stalking tendencies. It is not normal to follow a woman home pretty much every night, standing in front of her house, spying from corners on what she is doing and whom she is talking to. I also aks myself does he not have any other things in life? Does he not have friends, family meetings, hobbies? All we see is him at work drooling after the FL and watching her every step, and after work following her home like a stalker. Also thinking about his age, experience in life, and looks, I simply don't believe he would be lead on like a 15 year old hormone-ridden school boy after all the things the fl does through the episodes. I just don't believe it.

And on top of that, since episode 10, everything is dragging in total slow motion. I don't know why, but it seems like the writers simply couldn't find a way to sensibly fill 16 episodes, so especially ep 13 and 14 are a total drag, with scenes drawn to the max and nothing happening, flashbacks we've seen 5 times before or even scenes that kind of took place before (our ml and the other woman breaking up with her crying for what feels like the 10th time).

Altogether I have the problem I had several times with other dramas which started promising: I don't like any of the characters.

So, as I have watched 14 episodes already, I will watch the last two episodes too, maybe fast forwarding, just to see what kind of unbelievable end the writers have thought about.


Result: good idea, good start and development and then it goes down the drain.

Read More

Beautiful moments surrounded by nothing.

Here’s the thing - I liked the show when it started airing. I knew few people thought this type of plot might not work out with a drama format, but I was still full of hope. At some point, though, I had to admit they were right and I was wrong.

This show should be 12 episodes long at best. Preferable 6 to 10. It should focus on exactly 3 plotlines: Da Jung and Dae Young, Dae Young and his kids, and Da Jung’s job/dream. They should fill the episodes with school drama, as a lot of interactions were happening there. You can even keep the bullying and teen romance. But why, oh why do we need a love triangle? Why do we need a 2nd couple/romance? Why do we need all the scenes and interactions between Deok Jin and Ae Rin? Why do we need that Il Kwon mess? Or what was the point of this mystery photographer guy? There is so much going on in this show, and yet it feels like nothing is happening. All the most memorable moments that were truly meaningful were the family interactions. We do not need that many filler plots.

The last two episodes were some whole new level of cliche and stereotypes. When you have 2 cars of doom for the price of one, you know you've hit the jackpot. The back story about Ji Hoon's brother being connected to Dae Young was unnecessary and presented in the worst possible way. Such an emotional scene and yet, I could not stop laughing when the 2nd car came out of nowhere.

I don't even want to talk about the last minute "I'm breaking up with you for your own good" plot, because that trope just needs to die, or at least take a few years break from appearing on screen.

The highlights? All the scenes between Dae Young and his kids, both in the past and present. The slow realization he had about mistakes he made, the gradual learning that Dae Young actually cared a lot for Shi Ah and Shi Woo. These are the scenes I will remember after the show ends, and these are the ones that moved my heart the most. These were the gems that made me cry so many times, and if the show focused more on the actually important parts (relationships between main characters), chances are it might have gotten a 10 out of me.

For the acting, Lee Do Hyun aced the role. There are quite a few shows with the “younger actor playing an older character after body switch”, but none of the actors were as believable as Do Hyun. I trust this guy with my life. What do I see? Bright future ahead of him. His talent will lead him to some great roles and amazing projects.

Overall, the acting was on point. The emotional scenes were emotional, happy and funny scenes were just that: happy and funny. No areas of complaint here. Some people might dislike a few overacting moments from Lee Mi Do, Kim Kang Hyun and Kim Yoo Ri, but it was clearly a stylistic choice that has nothing to do with the acting skills of the actors themselves.

Usually I don’t pay that much attention to the soundtrack, unless it’s truly outstanding. Here, I liked quite a few songs, especially Sohyang’s Hello, which truly elevated the emotional scenes to a new level. Not to mention Sondia, who became one of my favorite ost singers, with an amazingly sweet and warm voice.

Overall, nice show, but skippable. I stayed for the parents and kids relationship and Lee Do Hyun’s acting. Even though I am massively disappointed by the obvious ending and last two episodes, the scenes between the family still made me tear up a bit and it shows how amazing this drama could have been if it was not for the unnecessary sub-plots.

Read More

ACTION THRILLER OF THE YEAR

Note: DO NOT EXPECT A BRAINY CRIME THRILLER & A CONTINUOUS STORY

Yes, you read the headline right! Do check it yourself. TAXI DRIVER is not a crime thriller, rather an action thriller, where you see a lot of action and stunts and it'd not be false to say that the action by Lee Je Hoon (Kim Do Ki) is not at all exaggerated or overdone unlike crime thrillers or simple melo dramas where everyone just flies off, climb walls like a reptile or jump high places like a squirrel (lol).

TAXI DRIVER is a perfect balance between thriller and melo, and a lil romance. The drama being based on a combination of real crime cases of Korea, is created on a concept of a transportation firm, namely Rainbow Taxi Service, that help people get revenge to avenge there dear one's death.

I am happy how brilliantly the main writer of the drama came up with this idea of portraying real cases and it's actually enthralling to witness this kind of direction. At the same time, I am unhappy how people have slept on this absolutely wonderful thriller piece. PEOPLE, DON'T DO IT.

I saw some people disappointed because there is no romance between the male lead and the second female lead, but what's with you expecting to see romance everywhere? Not everything necessarily has to be about it. Go watch romcom dramas.

I loved how this drama is straight-forward. Obviously, there are back stories for each of the major characters but you know what? They are not that long; even if they had stories to tell, those were shown as prologues and epilogues at the beginning and ending of each episode. You might not like the fact that there is almost no depth in there characters but I don't see that as a problem, given the drama is an absolute treat to yoyr mind & emotions.

Are you expecting a steady plot development to back a major protagonist-antagonist story? Well, it's better you to be aware that, you won't find a solid 16 episode long narrative here. Various cases that would be over come in broken prices will come together at a time in the end to haunt you down, haha.

Let's talk about acting? What exactly should I tell you? Just ummah! People, you have literally slept on Lee Je Hoon's acting till now. I am telling you he's one of the top 10 Korean actors. Let's start recognising his skills because it's not too late, okay? Esom noona is fierce as always. She did her job really nice. And oh my goodness, Pyo Ye Jin, I really really wish this drama will be a breakthrough to her carrier. This lady has waited long enough for such a role, which ahe deserved, and she's doing nice. Kim Eui Sung-nim is as always a solid actor. Jang Hyuk Jin & Bae Yoo Ram have done a impressive job as supporting characters which they've been doing fkr a long time.

Special mention to cinematography and the screen editing. The background themes and the songs that give you goosebumps, uff! Fabulous direction, coordinated and well organized script. A bit disappointed with the change of the main writer when only 3 eps were left but okay.

Please don't hesitate to watch. I am assuring you, this is the year's on of the best thriller because 2021 is indeed the year of thrillers.

P. S. First two episodes are introduction episodes. So don't drop the drama thinking it's slow, okay?

Read More

AN UNFORGETTABLE CINEMATIC MASTERPIECE !

***DISCLAIMER: This is just my opinion. We don’t have to agree and I’m not here to argue with anyone.***

THIS DRAMA IS BRILLIANT, INCREDIBLE, AMAZING, SHOW STOPPING AND SPECTACULAR. It may seem like I am over exaggerating but it was seriously so intense! I can’t even properly articulate how captivating it was. Not gonna lie the CHOKEHOLD this drama had me in for MONTHS definitely NEEDS TO BE STUDIED.

Since Part 1 this drama hooked me from the very beginning. The story is a long an tumultuous one, a rollercoaster ride with many many ups and downs for lack of better words. I feel I am truly blessed to have experienced this drama in 2023. I have always loved historical's especially in western shows but this drama made me realize my love for Saeguks in particular. This kdrama reminds me of every classic novel I've ever read. It’s filled with political intrigue, war, power struggles, women’s issues, survival, camaraderie, found family, societal expectations, class relations, love, marriage, the importance of reputation and so much more.  

If you are debating whether to watch it or not I suggest you go for it. I don’t want to give too much away but it’s definitely an experience you do not want to miss. I know some will disagree with me and find some fault but there is something interesting and captivating in every episode. Even if you don't want to admit it this drama is ADDICTING. It managed to evoke a lot of feelings whether that be frustration, annoyance, anger, sadness or adoration – THE WORKS! It put us ongoing watchers through the wringer each week but I wouldn’t have had it any other way. I feel so grateful to have known these characters and followed them along their journeys, both individual and together.

____________________________________________________

IN MORE DETAIL (SPOILERS AHEAD):

They exceeded my expectations in every episode. I can't express how wonderful this drama is. This show understands that every episode is important and that every single scene has a purpose. I'm astounded at the progress of the primary leads; they've come a long way. From the first episode, you can observe the difference and transformation. The intensity of the episodes, particularly their first reunion, the separation / goodbye, the "death" and their final reunion took a heavy toll on my emotions. 

I’d like to give a big thanks to the crew members that brought the cinematography to life. The same is true for the writer for having this degree of commitment to the story. Additionally, with each successive episode and scene, our main characters improved their craft. I really hope they win many awards!

Firstly I want to commend the talented Namkoong Min and Ahn Eun Jin for bringing our dearest Gil Chae and Jang Hyun to life. Our beloved Jangchae will be remembered forever and always. For me at least, they will go down as one of the BEST and MOST WELL WRITTEN CHARACTERS IN KDRAMA HISTORY. 

Gil Chae was My Dearest's actual heart and soul. She is undoubtedly my favorite character in 2023, and one of the top 3 in all of the dramas I have ever seen. Ahn Eun Jin's emotive and exceptional performance was profound. There are no words to express how much I adore Gil Chae. This drama proves that a strong-willed, feminine, kindhearted, sensitive, and perfectly imperfect female lead may exist without being annoyingly childish or portrayed as damsel in distress. Gil Chae truly matured throughout the course of this drama, and her character development is one of the best. I’m pleased Gil Chae never tried to define herself as a victim or force others to pity her. She remained resilient, resourceful, quick-witted, clever, and tenacious to the bitter end. Though she seemed overly understanding, selfless, and shortsighted at times, particularly when it came to Ryang Eum, the Qing Princess, and attempting to sacrifice her happiness in order protect Jang Hyun, her character was very nuanced, and I am grateful I got the opportunity to know her.

In a world of men, Jang Hyun is a "gentleman." I just felt compelled to make this point because he is by far the only male in this story who was kind, caring, compassionate wise beyond his years. Though I wished for more of his backstory as to how he became the man he is today, I believe the last two episodes neatly tied it up and as we watched him grow throughout the entire drama, you could always see and understand his motives because of the powerful messages he always managed to leave with other characters. I treasured watching him mature and prove himself to everyone. It was amazing to see him change his ideas after meeting Gil Chae and discovering someone he wanted to protect and stand by for years to come. Though he was a morally grey character in Part 1, he evolved into the guy he is today as a result of his experiences and the people he met along his journeys. He was more than just a merchant or an interpreter. He was the true diamond in the rough – the only one who saw everyone as a worthy human being and regarded everyone's life as important as his own. 

He is the only man in this drama who ever took the time to understand people and the world. Jang Hyun's gentle and compassionate remarks to Young Rang, his reprimand of the Qing Princess, his advise to the Crown Prince and Princess, his powerful heart-breaking confession to Gil Chae and his final appeals to his father will never be forgotten. 

The fact that Jang Hyun never once reduced a woman to her experiences needs to be recognized. He accepted Gil Chae as she was, never asked her to change and adored her and cherished her wholeheartedly. He is the epitome of what a guy should be. I know I've said it before, but he is the GOLD STANDARD. The fact that he had no intention of falling in love or even marrying until meeting Gil Chae years ago after saving her from falling from the swings says a lot. I will never ever forget the fact that after he first laid eyes on he he heard the sound of flowers and likened her to the marvel of Peru blooming. THAT IS A MAN HOPELESSLY IN LOVE. I admired how his loyalty to her never faltered for even one second. She was constantly at the back of his thoughts, no matter where he went or what he did. Even when his memories were erased, it was her voice that lingered.

Again I want to reiterate that Gil Chae and Jang Hyun are each others true equals. Their parallels and similar experiences say enough. They became daughters and sons to no one, yet they somehow found a home / safe place to land in each other. In their heart of hearts sworn by the moonlight and tied by the red thread of fate they were destined to always find each other. The ending of this drama is proof of that soul connection. Although people, places, and times changed throughout time, their love never wavered. That is more pure and sincere than any love story I have ever witnessed.

While love is not the main point of this drama, I can’t help but think it must be highlighted as the driving force that allowed them to be so courageous, endure, persevere and fight to protect the people they cared about.

I have never seen a kdrama where all the actors were actually flawless and nailed and sold their parts. I must applaud the actors who were members of the Royal palace, the Qing people and The Joseon captives who were so compelling! The supporting cast, which included children, intruders / invaders, and prisoners of war. I appreciate you putting your heart and soul into these performances. With the captives especially, you could feel their struggle, grief, frustration, heartbreak, and suffering. Even though they were only in a supporting role, they captured my attention and more than delivered in helping to make this drama feel more real and riveting.

I loved Gu Jam, he was always able to make you laugh especially in his interactions with Jong Jong. Even though I disliked Yeon Jun, you knew he was doing something right when he was able to make people hate him. I was proud of Eun Ae for making a comeback in the final episodes and shedding light on the patriarchal and sexist culture that has no regard for the rights of women. Even though I despised Gak Hwa, she managed to make us almost feel sorry for her when she changed her mind and released Jang Hyun. Although she was by no means a good person, I'm satisfied that she was able to find some sort of closure in the end. Yang Chun will always be remembered as a hero for giving his life to save the captives. From having mixed emotions towards In Ok to entrusting her to take care of his son Taeng Taeng, he has come a very long way.


DISLIKES:

(NB: This is about characters I disliked & pacing, not necessarily issues with the plot)

Ryang Eum – Oh boy! I definitely had a love hate relationship with him. I couldn’t stand him at all because he was the obstacle from part 1. If only he actually passed on Jang Hyun’s message and didn’t lie to Gil Chae that Jang Hyun had passed away our leads could have been together sooner. In part 2 you thought he would have learnt his lesson but no, he continued with his obsession and jealousy. He was so possessive over Jang Hyun even though he knew how much Jang Hyun and Gil Chae loved and would risk everything for each other. I also wish Ryang Eum's storyline was better developed because we just see him in a handful of scenes in prison wondering what happened to Jang Hyun after disclosing everything he knew and then nothing. I'd like to know how he was apprehended, why they thought he was insane, and why he was locked up for so long. I didn't like his character at first, but he matured and deserved better than the hand he was dealt. I'm sure he had no qualms about being imprisoned for Jang Hyun's sake / in his place, but it's unfortunate that he'll most likely have to live all his days in this manner. (Crazy bc I never thought I’d feel sorry for him either)

Yeon Jun - The last 2 episodes confirmed my hate and disdain for this man. His mindset is so ugly it shows that he does not care about women’s struggles. He doesn't really have a sense of direction or mind of his own. That’s why when Jang Chul hung himself and Eun Ae left him he tried to kill himself. He was such a pathetic coward to the very end. Out of all the characters he’s the one who never really changed for the better. He proved to be that same boy Gil Chae kept on pining over in the village because she did not know him better. Gil Chae dodged a bullet for sure, but Eun Ae who is such a sweet woman deserved so much better.

Officer Won Moo – Hated him from the moment he refused to believe Gil Chae was kidnapped. He spent all that time investigating and trying to find out whether she was actually taken or chose to run away with Jang Hyun instead of going out there, chasing down the intruders who took her and preventing her from crossing the border to Qing. Even after he found out the truth he was convinced by some men that she had already been defiled and that he would be better off re-marrying. He eventually abandoned her because he was weak and not able to endure her shame. The moment the husband chose his reputation over her wellbeing was the moment I considered them legally divorced. People are so quick to crucify Gil Chae and never hold Won Moo accountable but I am not one of those people. He literally went home, lied to everyone that thieves stole his goods, returned and then managed to knock up another woman all while Gil Chae was out their suffering and fighting for her life. I am glad he did not make an appearance in the last episodes after his exit in episode 16.

King Injoo – Senile and psychotic as ever. From day 1 we knew he would become an operative out to get everyone. I can’t believe he allowed the concubine Lady Cho to poison his mind against his own son and the captives. She prayed for their demise and in the end her curse came true. He was a fool and thats why he suffered in his last moments knowing he completely destroyed good people (the Crown Prince and Crown Princess)

Qing Princess – If you were here since the beginning you already know my sentiments towards her. Nothing changed for me because I hated her until the end. She had a change of heart in the end but that does not take away from the fact that she was ruthless, manipulative and selfish. She was 1 of the 2 obstacles in between our leads and I grew tired of her character. I felt like she took up a lot of screen time for such a boring character. It seemed like her entire existence revolved around Jang Hyun and trying to win his heart. That was disappointing since they made her character description seem like she was this badass princess. In my opinion she was all bark, no bite.

I believe that this drama could have been 4-5 episodes longer to fully delve into Jang Hyun and his sister's past. I was particularly interested Sam Do and his family – how they were murdered and how he became a slave. I also did not like the fact that Yeon Jun was used at the last minute to create unnecessary tension and strife in the last 2 episodes. To me, it just seemed like they tried to cram all that information in the eleventh hour. While I enjoyed it, as a lover of flashbacks and backstories, I wish there had been a bit more. 

Additionally, the concept of time between events in this drama doesn't really make much sense and trying to figure it out was a struggle. Nevertheless, I looked past these minor flaws and just appreciated the drama for what it was.


FINAL THOUGHTS:

I loved this drama so much, I don’t think anyone could have possibly loved this story more than me. I was there through it all –the back and forth, the miscommunication, tribulations, suffering, the pushing each other away, the tension, anguish, desire, the pain, the war, the heartbreak, and now the post series depression (PSD) that has ensued because this drama has ended. I'm not sure how another drama can ever equal this or fill the emptiness left by My Dearest. 

My heart is overflowing with love and excitement knowing that our dears – Gil Chae and Jang Hyun, are safe. They got to live the life they always wanted together, they got to grow old together, even if we couldn't see past their reunion on that beach. The emotional high at the end had me crying my eyes out. I didn't need a kiss since their hug and facial expressions told me all I needed to know.  They survived the storm and all of their trials and tribulations. THAT IS THE EPITOME OF TRUE LOVE AND DEVOTION. The fact that he lost his memories but remembered her voice and tracked it down to the precise location where she stated she wanted to live in the future is really full circle writing. 

Some may argue that the ending was a fan service, but to me it seemed appropriate. It took time for Gil Chae and Jang Hyun to reconnect and find each other again, which was realistic. I loved the parallel of the conclusion with the first episode where we see Gil Chae’s dream of her following the red thread she dropped, crossing so many terrains, weathering all seasons, seemingly running forever until finally sees her husband’s silhouette and meets him again on that beach. In the last scene Jang Hyun seems to remember Gil Chae and gives me so much peace knowing that she will be there every day from then on to remind him and ensure he never forgets her, himself or their story.

The OST is hauntingly beautiful and stays with you long after finishing the entire drama. I found myself listening to the OST while waiting on new episodes each week. Our lead, Ahn Eun Jin, sang one of the best songs, With My Heart. Additional appreciation goes to The Stray's My My Dearest, Lim Jae Hyun's Floral Shoes, MIYEON's Painted On The Moonlight, Kim Feel's My Star, and 2NB's Love Affair.

Would I recommend this drama to others? Yes. It's the BEST kdrama I've seen this year and my roman empire. I will never move on. I'll also never forget how much time I spent sitting and waiting for new episodes to come out week after week, or participating in discussions here. I met so many new people because of My Dearest. This drama may have started underrated and overlooked but I want to thank those that stuck around and made this whole experience unforgettable.

I know “My Dearest" will go down in history as a K-Drama classic. It has some of the greatest writing, acting, and directing, intriguing topics coupled with the tragedies of war, survival, sorrow, finding light in the darkness, healing / coping with trauma etc. In simple words it is everything I hoped for and more.

This drama explores consequences of war, love, duty, responsibility, and power shifts in history. The most pertinent message of the drama lies in the idea that there is hope during a time of war. It's a juxtaposition of love and war + sin and sacrifice. It demonstrates how GC and JH fall in love despite the war setting and develop a relationship with each other and overcome their perils and adversity. It also emphasizes patriarchal society's bleak outlook and the disastrous implications it has on its victims. The most important lesson is to acknowledge how fleeting life is and to seize each moment of happiness while it lasts.

Please be advised that this is not a happy story. It depicts the hardships of war in a realistic manner. If you're prepared to endure it, then watch this drama. I guarantee you won’t be disappointed. Each episode finishes on a cliffhanger that literally reels you back in and leaves you wanting more. If you don’t believe me then just watch and see for yourself.

With everything said I give this drama a 10/10.

Review of part 1 here: https://h1.nu/1gNGj

Thanks for reading & happy watching! 

❤️

Read More

A YOUTH DRAMA WE DIDN'T KNOW WE NEEDED

So what actually happens?
There is a guy named Ha Eun Gyeol, he's passionate about music but he is currently the trophy son to his deaf parents and the only person who can communicate with the outer world in his family. And boy got a deaf brother too (Ha eun ho) who does taekwondo... So dude gotta be responsible for all of them but his guitar keeps calling him and he's unsure if he should pursue music or not... One night magical shit happens and he lands in 1995 where his parents are now his age and he is now going to play cupid for his future parents as younger version of his father (Ha Yi Chan) is a lively youngster who is in a band, is chasing a popular girl, has no interest in studies or Eun Gyeol's future mother (Cheong Ah)

Twinkling watermelon is another sunshine kinda, wholesome, cute cum melodramatic sometimes yet funny and enjoyable youth drama that I would recommend to anyone who enjoys this genre.

This show has a lot of music, dramatic comedy (often overdramatic with exaggerated expressions but trust me it will make you smile), two cute couples and a bunch of high schoolers who would apparently form a band and great friendships (usual to such youth dramas).

What I loved the most in this drama is Yoon Cheong Ah, the bunny girl who is literally the word "cute". A deaf girl who has not received much warmth growing up but she isn't all weak and tries to protect herself in whatever ways possible. I love how they chose the right actress Shin Eun Soo for this role because her smile is honestly all pretty and as worthy as Eun Gyeol talks about in some scenes.

Younger Ha Yi Chan acted by Choi Hyun Wook was again a bonus because we know he's great at portraying this funky outgoing guy vibe. Chemistry of Ha Yi chan and Cheong Ah was also so mushy and natural that made me root for them all along... Ryeom and Seol in ah also did a convincing job at their roles... haven't seen Ryeom before but he was good at acting all those frustrating scenes when he had to face the mess of his time travel.

Also I don't think I need to mention this but you gotta love the father-son duo, be it 2023 or 1995, you'll love how they fight, bicker, protect or kick each other or have emotional conversations. They're simply adorable.

A noteworthy character here is Yi Chan's grandmother acted by Go Doo Shim. Loved her positive presence throughout the show... somehow this show is such a comfort watch thing and quite entertaining if you end up liking the characters. I watched it as it aired so I actually become reluctant towards the end that like "is it really ending tomorrow? I'll miss them"

You'll get the suspense of "if Ha Eun Gyeol can make things right" as a bonus. The ending might have raised questions but most of the major questions were answered in micro details while some mysteries like the time travel link, the shop Viva Music are better left unanswered (because I don't think a satisfying backstory or explanation can be built for that) so its better being left like that.

Read More

Entertaining Thriller with solid acting! Douban's average rating explained

The Double is a drama adapted from the book, Marriage of the Di Daughter, which I read last year. I binged on the first 5 episodes last night when it was released because I loved the book so much. So far, the drama has exceeded my expectation in everything except:

The modification of the story makes it hard to believe that she could take on the identity of the new daughter ... There are a few plot holes resulting from this change. I think I am going to just have to ignore the nagging "doesn't make sense" feeling because the drama is entertaining. Sometimes you just watch because it's entertaining.
Book: "Xue Fang Fei, passed away. She reincarnated into the body of the Grand Secretariat’s daughter, Jiang Li, who drowned and was granted new life!"
Screen play: "Xue Fang Fei escaped from being buried alive by husband and took over the identity of Jiang Li"

Ok now that the book expectation is out of the way, I believe the screenplay modification is more entertaining than reading the book. I will continue to watch because:
1) the solid acting from all the casts:

Wang Xing Yue has great screen presence. He is perfect for this role ranging from his deep voice to his looks/costumes. I just wish that there isn't too many jokes around him because I think it would diminish his characterization.

Wu Jin Yan also acted well ... revenge is her territory since the drama that made her famous- Yanxi Palace- I am waiting to see how she will make this drama her own.
Let's address the elephant in the room: agism for females as well as males. Wu Jin Yan is 33: to act like an 18-9 years old is hard, especially when all the actresses around her look like teenagers or 20s. No amount of filters can make her look like 18 years old because aging is about facial structure, not lines. In the 20s, the face is fuller, especially in the cheeks. And to make it worse, both MLs are only 22. She has a tough job ahead of her.
If you place 2 people who are similar age, then it's easier for the actor/actress. But the cast includes really young actors: her maid is only 15! The MLs are both 22. Appearance of age is all relative. That being said, if the story is engaging and the Male Lead is a good actor, chemistry will do the work.

***
For people who are concerned about an older actress - by episode 20s, I don't notice it as much any more. I think there's enough chemistry between the leads and good story that overcame the age factor.
***

Joe Chen - the stepmother added subtle acting to this drama - she is the stepmother coming alive.

2) the beautiful cinematography - the color palette, makeup, costumes
3) the entertaining value - fast-paced action, music, comedic value

Do I recommend this drama? Yes, especially if you are fan of Wang Xing Yue and Wu Jin Yan. The story is also solid. Although I have read the book, I feel that there may be surprises as they have changed it.

---------------My Rating Changed
Ep 11 is where I decided to give this drama a full mark instead of a 9. I think the creativity of last competition is very well done. The special effect is spectacular! And I also feel that the age difference between the leads/the plot holes are minor compared to all the positive things going for this drama. I also feel that Wang Xing Yue, even though looking younger, does have chemistry with WJY.
Surprisingly, the actor for Ye Shijie is also decent. He looks mature for his age too.

------------------Douban rating explained
The Double got its initial Douban rating of 6.9 ... I don't take this rating seriously because it's skewed towards dramas that I don't like :-) Just for comparisons, Love Like the Galaxy, which is my all time favorite, debuted at 7.4 and ended at 7.6! I think it should have been in 9s!!! But then my taste is more geared towards romantic dramas and better aligned with mydramlist rating.
Anyways, ratings between 6s to 8s are really good dramas for me ... anything from 8s to 9s are usually too serious/realistic (i.e. sad realistic endings) for me enjoy. For example, Blossoms Shanghai rated 8.4 ... Honestly, I don't enjoy this type of drama.

------ Exceptional Scene
Ep 16
The actor who really fits the role in this drama in looks and as well as acting is Wang Xing Yue. Wow the fighting scene at 14:32 ... His eyes really give the deadly chill. The director filmed the fighting scenes perfectly. Very exciting fights.

------- Love story/Relationships - believable?
To be honest, the book is more believable than the drama because in the book, she becomes another person, Jiang Li. It took her a long time to accept new love. In a way, I feel that living in another person's body is easier than the living in a body that has been abused. When I read the book, I felt that the purity of JL's body and innocent face/eyes also help transform her and help her find love again.

Some people said that her relationship with the Duke is so slow ... Come on, she was in love with her ex-husband before he betrayed her. Feelings/trust cannot be switched to another person that quickly. It wouldn't be believable. I find the change in her demeanor (ie. flirting) in the drama (while creating chemistry and entertaining) is not realistic for that time period during which a woman behaves more modestly.

But again, sometimes you just have to let go just enjoy the ride without thinking too much about what makes sense.

-----------------Modifications of the book
In the drama, JLi doesn't know that the princess is behind her death. While this doesn't make sense as her ex-husband goes to the Princess' home often and there's probably rumors about this. However, this makes sense for the plot line because it gives JLi a mystery to solve.

Ep 8-11: In the book, JLi is a only person doing all the examination topics: "Jiang Li calculated, calligraphy should be writing documents. It’s something that she was good at since young. Music should be playing the guqin. In her previous life, her seven notes qin was about the same as Xiao Deyin, so it’s not too difficult. Etiquette would be even simpler with her outstanding memory. Besides, she had gone through it before. Mathematics should be business calculations. There was no female in the house since she was young so she was the housekeeper and managed the household. Riding would be horse riding, she had also practiced this with Xue Zhao before and was applauded. Shooting would be archery, she had gone hunting, shot a sparrow and ate game."
However, in the drama, there is a teamwork in the examination. This makes the story more interesting.

Ep 11
In the book, Duke Su makes the winner decision instead of the ex-husband. I just feel that changing the plot to make the husband into a semi-good character is a little bit hard to accept.

------------------ Where's the First Miss? --------------------
There 3 daughters in the Ji's family. The first miss died when she was young, killed by Ji Shuran, whose goal was to get her offsprings to be the only direct descendants. So one by one, she removed them.

------------------- Explanations / book exerpts
Jiang Li's family background from the book
https://bloomingtranslation.home.blog/2019/09/01/mdd-chapter-2-1-jiang-li/

Ji Shuran - 2nd wife- the current "official" wife.
Jiang You Yao - 3rd daughter - Ji Shuran’s biological daughter- became official daughter when the 2nd daughter ( Jiang Li) was sent away
Jiang Li - Jiang family’s second young miss- sent off to the temple to study due to a mistake she made five years ago (accused of causing stepmom's miscarriage),

https://bloomingtranslation.home.blog/2020/11/01/mdd-chapter-39-part-2/
Jiang Yuan Bai - Jiang Li's father- married her mom without love. When she died, he fell in love with Ji Shuran and married her.

------------- Excerpts from the book - description of Jiang li
"Everyone said that the second miss of the Jiang family was lively and adorable, with an honest character as pure as a white lotus."
"Jiang Yuanbai looked at Jiang Li’s profile, an elegant beauty, graceful like jade, yet ferocious, bold and heroic."
" This girl’s eyes were pure and clean like pools of spring water, sweet and simple."

Read More

Cinematography is giving.

I guess I’m just so used to a certain standard of quality when it comes to Thai BLs that when we actually get high production values—and none of those cringy sound effects—I’m always blown away.

This was honestly a really strong start. It’s clear this series is going to be gritty, raw, and emotional, and honestly? I want that. It’s rare that we get stories like this, so I’m absolutely here for it.

Also, this might be one of my favorite dual-language mashups we’ve seen so far—though, honestly, that dad probably should’ve just spoken Korean. But I’ll forgive it.

I also have to give a shoutout to Top. I know he’s only in a supporting role here, but dang, he’s such a good actor. He blew me away in Every You Every Me, and this just proves even more how talented he is.

And let’s be real—I'm here for the eye candy too. This whole cast is seriously easy on the eyes.

After an intense first episode, I'm officially locked in and seated. Let’s watch this raw, emotional, gritty drama... and probably end up booking a few extra therapy sessions afterward.

Read More

Only if you're a Liu Yu Ning fan

After watching The Prisoner of Beauty I really wanted to love this but it wasn't meant to be. Don't get me wrong Liu Yu Ning was terrific as the male lead Nan Heng / Li Shi Liu unfortunately he couldn't save this drama.

I have never been so angry watching a drama before. But this one managed to piss me off to no end. How could one character (the male lead at that) be so hated. Everyone (aside from his people) were mean, downright cruel to him. And then along comes the female lead and dang if she isn't the worse of the lot (and that includes the emperor and that's saying something)

His own father hated him for something he didn't do. Honestly how could a child be responsible for a grown up's death? And it just went downhill from there.

Every episode seemed to get worse starting from the very first episode. In just a couple of episodes I was actually rooting for Nan Heng to ride off into the sunset and leave the rest to their own fate.

Then around episode 30 the writer decides to change it up and have the emperor realize he'd wronged Nan Heng. And of course the female lead finally comes in with the "White head, same heart" but personally, I felt it was too little too late.

Great happy ending.

Would I recommend it? No. But if you are a Liu Yu Ning fan and you've seen everything else of his then give it a shot, he's the only reason to watch it. However, I'd recommend a rewatch of The Prisoner of Beauty instead.

Read More

Another Cinderella, all-out, taking her sudden chance for revenge

"Perfect Marriage Revenge" is based on a webtoon and tells the story of a second chance in life, set in the top percentile of society. Another Cinderella story. And as is the case with fairy tales, you can hear them over and over again...

This version is particularly enjoyable, being peppered with gratifying moments of retribution. Cinderella wants to get one over on the mean stepmother and her nasty daughter! She doesn't want to be nice and well behaved anymore. Splendid! Of course the others obviously attempt to push back on her new self. This ultimately leads to a lively exchange of blows between two of the country's rich business families.

"Perfect Marriage Revenge" delivers intrigue and makjang, cleverly mixed with emotional complications and well-placed retaliation, which is, however, repeatedly and tirelessly parried. It´s like ping-pong - reckoning here, malice there, self-respect here, nefariousness there. What a delight, if you´re in the mood for just that.

A campaign of revenge with an open visor. With an explicit protagonist who allows herself to act impulsively, intuitively and cleverly at the same time. In her authenticity, she is able to win the hearts of allies as she is fighting her battle not out of greed, but out of self-love for her self-respect.

As I said, with plenty of gratifying moments...
And as a fairy tale it surely delivers...
No more, no less.

Read More

I am actually glad this drama is over, I would really not survive if it got more extension.

This drama started magically, I mean it, when I watching the first 2 episodes I was weeping from the cuteness ad genius acting of the child actors. It will be very rude of me not to mention that I fell for Yeo JinGoo... totally and forever. That boy is not acting, he is actually living every damn second of his role. There are so many moments I would like to highlight in his acting, but this particular part I must write here: the part when we are shown the children holding each other's bloody hands and their faces were shown so scared and alarmed, and then suddenly the separation of hands... and JongWoo's face at the scene in front of his eyes... I was honestly hyperventilating from tears, as I couldn't take the beauty and genius acting, but at the same time the heaviness of the scene... one of the most memorable scenes in my dramalife.

As I discovered throughout this drama, I am not a fan of melodramas and get bored or long revenge stories, I, of course, kept coming back, as the acting, the set-up, the aura of the drama were dragging me in (tell me, if you were me, would you be so cold hearted and leave Yoochun and Yoo SeungHo hanging? you wouldn't, especially when they were doing a great job).

I must say Yoochun's JongWoo is a really great character, whom I came to love with all my heart. And the interesting fact I noted, that Yoochun had paid a lot of attention how Yoo JinGoo had played JongWoo, and was actually not creating an adult version, but continuing from where JinGoo had left JongWoo. And I really admire that fact, that made me love Yoochun more as a n actor. I must say this is his best role yet.
Can't say anything more than neutral about adult SooYeon, though I love-love-love Yoon EunHee, her SooYeon was boring to me, I saw strength in her only in the last episode for a couple of minutes, the other times, she was either supported either by Harry, or JongWoo... nothing like her child version who went after the boy she loved and got kidnapped with him.
I cannot also leave SeungHo's Harry. Though, of course, not my favourite character in the drama (duh), he did a splendid job! There was not a second I didn't believe his Harry, not a single tear, which went unnoticed, bravo~

The music was ok, nothing to scream about, I have downloaded only one song from the OST, which is rare for me, well, MBC can't create awesome OSTs every time...

About rewatch value... I'll come back, I think, BUT only for the first 3 episodes and the last part of the last episode... I am done with it.

Read More

Lazy writer

I watched episode 15 last night and thought, "Wow, I haven't seen a Korean drama adopt an Indian soap opera style before." I had been watching patiently week by week, hoping the writing would improve, but it didn't. It mixed up everything: divorce, a mean mother-in-law, cancer, memory loss, etc.—you name it. I thought the writer was being creative in offering something new because people said the writer was a big deal. However, it turns out the writing is just like a story created by a middle-schooler on Wattapp.

I know for sure this drama will be successful in terms of viewership since the writer went back to basics by having good-looking casts and glamorous styles. This recipe guarantees ratings. But, it makes the work look cheap. No wonder the Baeksang tossed this drama out of the window by only giving it one nomination (even though the committee might regret this later and wish they had given zero nominations to this series).

Read More